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In November, I named Cristian Romero as our most important player. I argued that, despite his temperament, he is a player in control.
Following his reckless display against Manchester United on Saturday, I am now questioning my previous appraisal of our captain.
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Added to his on-field misdemeanours, Romero has also been very vocal on social media this season, strongly criticising the club.
While many fans have found this refreshing and, in some cases, quite entertaining, is it really the behaviour we require from our captain?
It is much easier to lead when things are going well, but what about when you are on the cusp of a relegation battle?
Now, more than ever, we need a leader we can rely on.
This is not the time for Romero to play by his own rules, no matter how passionate he may be.
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Perhaps more concerning than Romero’s most recent red card, was Thomas Frank’s lack of knowledge on his captain’s overall discipline.
Given that Frank was unaware Romero has the most red cards of any player in the period since he joined Spurs, it feels fair to question how informed his decision-making has been in general.
Nevertheless, the Tottenham head coach is adamant Romero will reclaim the armband when he returns from his four-game suspension.
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So, for that period, with James Maddison still sidelined through injury, captaincy will be handed over to our other vice-captain, Micky van de Ven.
Will the Dutchman use this as an opportunity to stake his claim for the position on a more permanent basis, or will he happily relinquish the responsibility once Romero returns?
Either way, I just hope someone can bring some much-needed composure to a team that is unravelling.
Find more from Ali Speechly at Women Of The Lane and on Instagram
